UBT194M

Facial treatments
Unit reference number: Y/615/0645
Level: 2
Guided Learning (GL) hours: 50

Overview
This unit will enable learners to provide facial treatments to clients, working on the required
areas of the face, neck and décolleté. Learners will develop the knowledge and skills to
prepare for and provide a professional treatment whilst at the same time developing their
understanding of possible contra-indications, along with indications for, and benefits and
effects of professional facial treatments.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this unit, learners will:

LO1 Know the salon requirements for facial treatments

LO2 Understand the effects and indications for facial treatments
LO3 Be able to prepare for facial treatments
LO4 Be able to provide facial treatments

Version 5

1
Assessment requirements
Learners must complete all four assessment requirements related to this unit:
1. Treatment portfolio
2. Graded practical assessment
3. External examination
4. Graded synoptic assessment

1. Treatment portfolio
Learners must produce a treatment portfolio.

At a minimum the treatment portfolio should contain evidence that learners have:

 Performed a minimum of 3
- Facial treatments (a minimum of 1 to include steam and extraction)
 Used all products
- Eye make-up remover
- Cleansing lotions, milks, creams, foams, oils or gels
- Skin toners, fresheners, astringents or tonics
- Moisturising creams
- Eye creams or gels
- Neck creams
- Serums
- Exfoliating products
- Masks, setting and non-setting
 Used all equipment
- Sponges
- Chair/couch
- Containers for water, etc.
- Mirror
- Tissues
- Couch roll
- Cotton buds
- Bowls
- Warm towels or steamers
- Tipped orangewood sticks
- Cotton buds
- Spatulas
- Headbands
- Consultation card/treatment plan
 Treated all skin types and conditions
- Oily
- Dry
- Combination
- Dehydrated
- Mature
- Sensitive

2
 Used all massage techniques
- Effleurage
- Petrissage
- Tapotement
- Friction
- Vibrations
 Worked on all treatment areas
- Face
- Neck
- Décolleté and shoulders
 Given all types of advice
- Aftercare
- Possible contra-actions
- Post-treatment restrictions
- Additional retail products and services

The treatment portfolio must be completed prior to learners undertaking the graded practical
skills test. Whilst treatment portfolios will not be graded, they may be sampled by the VTCT
External Quality Assurer (EQA).

Evidence from the graded practical assessment must also be presented in the treatment
portfolio.

2. Graded practical assessment

Learners must carry out a complete treatment which will be observed, marked and graded
by centre assessors. The grade achieved in the graded practical assessment will be the
grade awarded for the unit.

The graded practical assessment must take place in a real or realistic working environment
on a real client. At a minimum the graded practical assessment for this unit must cover:

 Treatment – one facial treatment to include; cleanse, tone, skin analysis, steam,
exfoliation, massage, mask, moisturiser
 Equipment – couch, trolley, stool, towels, magnifying lamp, warm towels or steamer
 Products – disinfecting fluid for equipment, couch roll, tissues, cotton wool, tipped
orangewood sticks, cotton buds, spatulas, cleanser, toner moisturiser, massage
medium, setting and non-setting mask (2 masks to be applied simultaneously on
appropriate areas of the face, neck, décolleté and shoulders to include one clay and one
commercial mask)

Recorded professional discussion can also be used as an assessment method attached to

the graded practical assessment and is particularly useful for gathering evidence for criteria
related to evaluation and reflection. Professional discussions should be planned and
recorded.

3
3. External examination
Whilst the theory content of LO1and LO2 may be naturally assessed in the graded practical
assessment, they will be tested by an external examination towards the end of the period of
learning.

External examinations will test knowledge and understanding from across the whole
vocational area (mandatory units). Learners should use the unit content section of this unit to
aid revision since exam questions will test the full breadth of this section.

External examinations will be set and marked by VTCT and will contribute to the overall
qualification grade.

4. Graded synoptic assessment

In the last term or final third of their qualification, learners will be required to undertake a
graded synoptic assessment. This will require learners to carry out a range of services from
across the whole vocational area (mandatory units). Assessment coverage will vary year on
year, although all services will be covered over time.

VTCT will set a brief for centres which will detail the services to be covered in the graded
synoptic assessment. Grading descriptors for the synoptic assessment will also be provided
by VTCT.

The graded synoptic assessment will be marked and graded by centre staff and externally
verified by VTCT.

The graded synoptic assessment will contribute to the overall qualification grade.

4
Unit content
LO1 Know the salon requirements for facial treatments
Learners must know how to set up the work area:
 Prepare the work area to allow for
- Ease of access and free movement around the couch/chair
- Effective lighting
- Hygienic set up of chair, couch and trolley
- Selection of products and equipment to meet the needs of the client
 Ensure a safe working environment
- Clean and hygienic work area
- The use of a suitable sterilisation and sanitisation for equipment
- Effective positioning of couch, trolley and stool to allow ergonomic and safe
practice

Learners must know how professional beauty therapists present themselves:

Clean professional uniforms create a positive impression of the beauty therapist and the
salon. Uniforms should be made from a comfortable fabric to facilitate the stretching involved
in the treatment
 Beauty therapists should wear closed in footwear, no jewellery, no piercings, hair neatly
tied back, and any fringe secured, nails well-manicured, short and free of varnish
 Personal hygiene and cleanliness including showering, covering cuts and abrasions,
wearing deodorant or antiperspirant, oral hygiene, including clean teeth, fresh breath, are
all important elements of professional presentation

Learners must know the salon requirements for record keeping:

 Accurate appointment systems, stationery, loyalty, rewards, acknowledgement of
occasions
 How to establish and record clear information that is accurate and in logical order, how to
refer to existing records
 Skin sensitivity tests, adaptations and modifications, recommendations
 Treatment planning and how to update records at the end of the treatment, update at
each visit, maintained electronically, paper records

Learners must know the importance, purpose and methods of patch tests:
 A patch test is designed to alert the therapist to any pre-disposed skin sensitivity on the
client’s behalf. Any active, new or known ingredient that can potentially produce a
reaction is usually patch tested 24-48 hours before treatment. All patch tests provided
need to be noted and recorded, listing all products, where patch test took place on the
body and, if appropriate, client signature and date
 Patch testing would include all active or new products to be used within the treatment
such as the massage medium and general products. Client records need to be updated
with results. Conducted to ascertain suitability of products and sensitivity of the client
 Patch test application techniques:
- Cleanse area (either crook of elbow or behind ear)
- Apply product to the area with a brush
- Allow to dry
- Leave on for a minimum of 24 hours
- Explain positive and negative reactions
- Remove excess product
- Complete record card with results, products used and where placed

5
Explain how to interpret results of the patch test:
 Positive – red, itchy, irritated, swelling, sore
 Negative – no change to skin

Learners must know the correct procedure to take when a contra-action occurs:
 An allergic reaction to eye products – the client may experience sensitivity or a burning
sensation. Remove all products immediately, apply a cold compress, if product has got in
the eye use an eye bath to flush the eye, record the information on the clients record
card seek medical advice if symptoms persist
 An allergic reaction to skin products – the client may experience redness, itching,
swelling, rash, burning or stinging, blistering. Remove all skin products immediately with
suitable remover, clean the area with cool water, apply a cool compress, record the
information on their record card, and seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
Recommend hypo-allergenic products

Learners must know the insurance requirements for the delivery of treatments:
 As a minimum a salon should hold where applicable, employers insurance as well as
public liability insurance and professional indemnity

Learners must know the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors:
 The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally

6
LO2 Understand the effects and indications for facial treatments
Learners must know the benefits and effects of the different massage techniques
used in facial massage:
 Effleurage is usually repeated several times over the same area on the body and is a
basic massage movement. It is often used as a linking movement transferring from one
movement or area of the treatment to the next. The benefits and effects of effleurage:
- Soothes the nervous system
- Increases the venous and lymphatic flow
- Relaxes contracted tense muscle fibres
- Introduces the therapist’s hands by applying the massage medium
 Petrissage is a compression movement performed using intermittent pressure, with one
hand, both or parts of the hands. It consists of grasping or compressing a muscle group,
a muscle or part of a muscle and applying pressure then releasing the pressure,
progressing to an adjacent area and repeating the process. The benefits and effects of
petrissage:
- Increases venous and lymphatic flow
- Aids desquamation
- Eliminates muscle fatigue
- Improves skin texture
 Tapotements are movements which may be referred to as percussion manipulations.
They consist of a series of brief, rapidly applied contacts of the finger tips or hands in
alternating movements. The hands must be kept loose and mobile so that all the
movements produced are springy and stimulating. The benefits and effects of
tapotement:
- Stimulates nerve endings
- Causes a local rise in skin temperature and an erythema is produced
- Produces a stimulating effect on the circulatory and muscular systems
 Frictions are concentrated movements exerting deep controlled pressure on a small area
of the surface tissues, moving them over the underlying structures. The movements are
applied in a circular manner, using the pad of the thumb, fingers or pad of the palm.
Friction movements may also be applied along a muscle and are then referred to as
transverse frictions. A steady, even pressure is maintained across the muscle fibres and
its purpose is to produce a stretching, releasing effect on the tissues. The benefits and
effects of frictions are that they:
- Break down adhesions freeing stiff joints
- Loosen and stretches scar tissue
- Produce a localised erythema
 Vibrations are shaking or fine trembling movements performed with one or both hands.
The tips of the index fingers, the first two fingers or the distal phalanx of the thumb may
be used. The muscles of the forearm are contracted and relaxed rapidly, so a fine, rapid
trembling is produced. The benefits and effects of vibrations are that they:
- Gently stimulate the nerves and clears nerve paths
- Relieve muscle pain as they have a sedative effect
- Can be used to help to loosen old scar tissues and to stretch adhesions

Learners must know the safe application of facial massage techniques:

 To avoid discomfort or possible injury pressure must not be applied over bony areas, the
carotid artery, the sternocleidomastoid muscle or trachea
 Adaptations to massage techniques to meet the needs of the client, e.g. a client with
mature skin may need lighter pressure to avoid pulling the skin

7
Learners must know the contra-indications to facial treatments:
 Examples of contra-indications that may prevent treatment – severe asthma, contagious
skin diseases and disorders, bacterial (impetigo), viral (herpes simplex), fungal (tinea),
parasitic infestations (scabies), systemic medical conditions, eye infections, acne, boils,
severe skin conditions, recent scar tissue, any undiagnosed lumps or swellings, cancer
treatments, product allergies
 Examples of contra-indications that may restrict treatment – anyone undergoing medical
treatments, anxiety, medication, e.g. acne medication, retinols, steroids, epilepsy,
diabetes, pigmentation disorders, micropigmentation, botox, dermal fillers, recent
dermabrasion or medical peels, IPL or laser and epilation, metal pins and plates,
sunburn, psoriasis, eczema, cuts and abrasions, bruises, broken bones, recent scar
tissue, hyperkeratosis, skin allergies, styes, respiratory conditions, heart
disorder/disease, pacemaker, history of thrombosis or embolisms, high or low blood
pressure and pregnancy
 Examples of possible contra-indications to steaming – vascular skin disorders,
respiratory problems, claustrophobia, broken capillaries, diabetes

Learners must know the possible contra-actions that may occur during or after a
facial application:
 Contra-actions and responses – erythema, inflammatory and cleansing response from
products, temporary pustules or papules

Learners must know how to effectively respond to contra-actions:

 Discontinue treatment and remove products
 Take remedial action
 Record contra-action

Learners must know the effects of products used in a facial treatment and which skin
types and conditions they are suitable for:
 Cleansing products – used to remove soluble and insoluble dirt such as make-up or
sweat
- Oily eye make-up remover – to remove waterproof mascara, oil-based
make-up
- Non-oily eye make-up remover – sensitive eyes, false lashes
- Cleansing milk – dry/sensitive/normal/combination skin
- Cleansing cream – ultra dry skin, deep cleansing
- Cleansing lotion – oily/congested/combination skin
- Facial wash/cleansing gel – oily skin types
 Toners – used to remove excess cleanser and to rebalance the pH of the skin
- Toner (freshener) – dry/sensitive/mature
- Toner (astringent) – oily/problem
- Toner (tonic) – normal
 Exfoliation products
- Mechanical – facial brush/brush cleanse machine
- Scrub/grains – uses natural products (e.g. nuts) or cereals (e.g. porridge)
- Clay – gentler to skin
 Moisturising products – to prevent moisture loss, hydrate the skin, protect from
environmental damage
- Moisturiser – day cream, night cream, eye, lip or neck creams or serums and
products designed for skin type

8
 Massage medium
- Massage oil is traditionally plant oil. These are used to promote slip and glide
for extended periods of time, allowing the therapist to use smooth controlled
movements without pinching or pulling the skin. The best varieties of
massage oils do not absorb into the skin quickly. The most commonly found
varieties of oil used for massage are sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba
oil and sunflower oil
- Massage cream is suited for clients who require a heavier medium. This
medium provides longer-lasting slip. It is also good for clients who are oil-
phobic or do not like the feel of oil on their skin. It can be easier to wash off
than oil and leaves a non-greasy feel
- Massage gel is usually water-based and non-oily. It leaves no residue and is
good for clients who do not like the feel of oil on their skin
 Setting and non-setting masks – masks are suitable for all skin types, setting are usually
for oily skins, non-setting for all skin types, more than one mask can be used on one
person e.g. for a combination skin. Choice based on skin type, condition, target areas of
treatment
- Clay masks – can be mixed suitable to skin type
- Peel off masks – choose for skin type
- Thermal masks – normal/oily/problem skins
- Warm oil masks – dry/mature
- Natural masks – ingredients suitable for skin type (examples of possible
ingredients – avocado, yoghurt, oats, citrus fruits, eggs, honey)
- Cream masks – commercial, pre-prepared, suitable for skin type
 Additional products
- Awareness of acid peels – glycolic acid, alpha hydroxyl acid, for mature and
photo-damaged skin
- Awareness of pre-blended aromatherapy massage oil – a blend of essential
oils which have already been mixed with a carrier oil by the manufacturer
- Aromatherapy essential oils consist of tiny aromatic molecules that are readily
absorbed via the skin. They have therapeutic constituents that enter the
bloodstream and are carried around the body to where they can deliver the
beneficial healing powers. When essential oils are pre-blended they do not
meet a client's personal and specific needs. The oils have been mixed to
perform a specific objective, for example to invigorate, relax or to detoxify

Learners must know the benefits of skin warming techniques:

 Relaxes muscles
 Warms tissues
 Opens pores
 Prepares skin for further treatments

Learners must know how to use skin warming devices:

 Steamers
- Check electrical safety and water levels, pre-heat steamer before use, protect
client’s eyes, protect areas of broken capillaries with damp cotton wool, client
semi-reclined, minimum distance 30cm, further away for more sensitive skins,
timing dependant on skin type, follow manufacturer’s instructions
 Warm towels
- Immerse towels in water or warm in towel warmer. Temperature of towels
must always be checked prior to applying to clients skin

9
Learners must know how to use extraction techniques:
 Therapist to wear disposable gloves
 Comedone extractor should be sterilised before use, use loop end and
apply gentle pressure around comedone, wipe away with damp cotton wool
 Finger extraction – wrap in tissue/damp cotton wool and apply gentle pressure with index
fingers around comedone, wipe away with damp cotton wool

Learners must have an understanding of professional terminology in relation to

ingredients and effects of products:
 Abrasive, antioxidant, aqueous, astringent, broad spectrum SPF, ceramides
comedogenic, cosmeceuticals, detergent, emollient, emulsifying agent, emulsion,
enzyme, essential oils, exfoliating, foaming agents, free radicals, glycolic acid,
homogenous, humectant, hyaluronic acid, hydroxy acid, lactic acid, luminosity, occlusive,
paraben, photo damaged skin, phyto nutrient, preservatives, retinol, salicylic acid,
silicone, skin lightening, titanium dioxide, vitamins A, C, E, water soluble, zinc

10
LO3 Be able to prepare for facial treatments
Prepare and check the work area, equipment and products prior to the facial
treatment:
 Prepare treatment area according to salon requirements. Ensure the couch is at the
correct working height, sturdy and with an adjustable back-rest. The couch needs to be
wide enough for client comfort and the base should be covered with towels and
disposable couch roll for hygiene
 Set up the treatment trolley with the necessary products, tools and equipment
 Provide a modesty gown for the client
 Check the client by completing a consultation
 Ensure all equipment and products are to hand and are working efficiently
 Use safe working practices:
- Positioning of yourself to avoid injury
- Positioning of your client
- Positioning of your equipment

Agree the treatment and check for contra-indications:

 Verbal communication – speaking manner and tone, sensitive to client, open questioning
related to treatment
 Non-verbal communication – eye contact, body language, listening
 Record keeping – contra-indication check, signatures, name, address, contact numbers,
age range, reason for treatment, occupation, sport/hobbies, medical history,
allergies/hypersensitivity, contact lenses, contra-actions, skin sensitivity tests
 Ensure visual and manual checks are carried out to identify any contra-indications
 Tactfully ask relevant questions, document and record the client feedback
 Outline benefits of treatment and agree treatment aims
 Establish treatment choices – state the benefits of facial treatments in a variety of
context, reasons for treatment, physical, psychological and physiological effects
 Establish skin type and condition by carrying out skin analysis – using magnifying lamp,
protect eyes, check all areas of the face and neck for skin type, skin conditions and
characteristics, complete record card with results
 Establish the correct products and massage medium to use on the client
 Establish age of client and the legal requirements for providing treatments to minors
under 16 years of age
 The age at which an individual is classed as a minor and how this differs nationally

Explain the treatment procedure to the client:

 Explain how the client should position themselves for treatment, how long the treatment
will take and the areas to be treated for facial massage. Discuss the client’s expectations
from the treatment and how this may influence the treatment

Instruct the client on how to prepare for the facial treatment:

 Removal of appropriate clothing and jewellery, positioning throughout the treatment, use
of modesty wear, communicating comfortable depth of pressure and any areas of
discomfort

11
LO4 Be able to provide facial treatments
Prepare the client and their skin for treatment:
 Remove or protect clothing and hair as appropriate
 Position the client with good support for the client’s arm
 Explain each stage of the treatment

Select the required equipment and products to achieve the desired results:
 Selection of equipment and products to suit client’s skin type and treatment objectives

In line with manufacturer’s instructions, carry out facial techniques:

 Selection of equipment and techniques in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions –
cleansing toning and moisturising products, massage medium and masks
 Double cleanse the area to be treated
 Tone to remove all trace of cleansing product
 Application of exfoliation product
 Carry out steaming and comedone extraction if applicable
 Massage the area using a selection of appropriate massage techniques demonstrating
all 5 classical massage movements
 Excess massage medium is removed from the area (if needed)
 Application of correct masks for skin type and conditions (two masks to be applied
simultaneously on appropriate areas of the face and neck to include one clay and one
commercial mask)
 Removal of mask
 Appropriate application of toner, facial moisturiser on specific targeted areas
 Prevent excess waste of treatment time and consumables by preparing effectively and
working efficiently
 Reassure the client and communicate your positioning instructions clearly during the
service

Provide suitable aftercare advice:

 Advise the client to avoid excessive heat or further facial treatments for 24 hours
 Provide aftercare advice on application of any professional products to enhance and
maintain the effects of the treatment
 Use of sunscreen
 Advice and guidance on a suitable skin care regime and homecare treatments to suit
client’s skin type and conditions
 Give advice on retail products to continue the beneficial effects of treatment
 Advise on the possible contra-actions that may occur such as a skin reaction, headache

Update and maintain the client treatment records:

 Record the outcomes of the treatment ensuring records are up to date with the products
used, any adaptations, any reactions to the treatment, aftercare given and feedback from
the client

Prepare the area for the next treatment:

 Clean the product tops and bottles and return to storage, dispose of all waste in bin,
place used towels in laundry, tidy all consumables away following salon requirements.
Clean work area with sanitiser, reset the couch with fresh towels and couch roll ready for
the next treatment. Ensure the treatment area is left clean and prepared for the next
treatment
12
Skin cancer awareness
Please note this information will not be assessed for the achievement of this unit.
Public awareness of skin cancer has never been higher, and yet skin cancer remains the
fastest growing cancer in the UK, especially amongst young people. The chances of a
positive outcome can be dramatically increased with early identification and diagnosis.

Professionals in hair, beauty, sports massage and health and wellbeing industries work
closely with clients and in many cases have sight of areas of skin which may not be easily
visible to the client. An informed awareness of the signs, symptoms and changes of
appearance to be aware of when checking for early signs of cancer is a crucial tool for the
conscientious practitioner in order to provide the most thorough service and in some cases,
possibly lifesaving information signposting.

Signs to look for when checking moles include utilising the ABCDE guide:

A - Asymmetry – the two halves of the area/mole may differ in their shape and not match.

B - Border – the edges of the mole area may be irregular or blurred and sometimes show
notches or look ‘ragged’.

C - Colour – this may be uneven and patchy. Different shades of black, brown and pink may
be seen.

D - Diameter – most but not all melanomas are at least 6mm in diameter. If any mole gets
bigger or changes see your doctor.

E - Elevation/evolving – elevation means the mole is raised above the surface and has an
uneven surface. Looks different from the rest or changing in size, shape or colour. Anyone
can get a suspicious mole or patch of skin checked out for free by the NHS by visiting their
doctor, who may then refer to a dermatologist (an expert in diagnosing skin cancer).

If you require any additional NHS information please refer to https://www.nhs.uk/be-clear-on-

cancer/symptoms/skin-cancer

If your learners are interested in learning more about skin cancer awareness alongside this
qualification, VTCT runs the following qualification: VTCT Level 2 Award in Skin Cancer
Awareness for Non-Healthcare Professionals.

This qualification has been specifically designed for those working in the sports massage,
health and wellbeing, beauty, hairdressing and barbering sectors. It will enable learners to
identify any changes to their client’s skin and to highlight those changes to the client using
appropriate language and communication skills. It will enable the learner to raise awareness
of skin cancer and signpost their clients to public information about skin cancer.

This qualification will enable hair, beauty and wellbeing professionals to gain the appropriate
knowledge and communication skills required to provide non-diagnostic, professional advice
and information to clients in a discrete, empathetic and confidential manner.

For more information please refer to the Record of Assessment book:

https://qualifications.vtct.org.uk/finder/qualfinder/1Record%20of%20Assessment%20Book/A
G20529.pdf

13
Assessment criteria
Assessment criteria will be applied to the graded practical assessment. In order to Pass this
unit, learners must at a minimum achieve all Pass criteria. The pass criteria relate to the
proficient demonstration of skills and knowledge. All criteria within a given grade must be
achieved to be awarded that grade.

Learning outcome Pass Merit Distinction

The learner must: The learner can: To achieve a Merit grade, in To achieve a
addition to achievement of Distinction grade, in
the pass criteria, the learner addition to
can: achievement of the
pass and Merit
criteria, the learner
can:
LO3 Be able to P1 Prepare and check M1 Adjust communication D1 Explain their
prepare for facial the work area, techniques to meet the choice of products
treatments equipment and client’s needs and techniques used
products prior to the during the facial
facial treatment treatment
M2 Use techniques to
P2 Agree the promote the retail of products
treatment and check or additional services D2 Review the
for contra-indications effectiveness of the
P3 Explain the facial treatment and
M3 Display organisation skills make suggestions for
treatment procedure to
by using tidy, efficient improvement
the client
working methods
P4 Instruct the client
on how to prepare for
the facial treatment
LO4 Be able to P5 Prepare the client
provide facial and their skin for
treatments treatment
P6 Select the required
equipment and
products to achieve
the desired results
P7 In line with
manufacturer’s
instructions, carry out
facial techniques
P8 Provide suitable
aftercare advice
P9 Update and
maintain the client
treatment records
P10 Prepare the area
for the next treatment

14
Assessment guidance
Assessors must use the amplified assessment guidance in this section to judge whether
assessment criteria have been achieved in the graded practical assessment.

P1 Prepare and check the work area, equipment and products prior to the facial
treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have set up the treatment area in line with treatment
and health and safety requirements. All the required products for the treatment are to hand
and are fully stocked in advance.

P2 Agree the treatment and check for contra-indications

Learners must demonstrate that they have consulted with the client using appropriate
questioning techniques, as well as conducting visual and manual checks for contra-
indications. Learners must explain the treatment in full to the client and ascertain the client’s
treatment expectations. Learners must correctly identify the client’s skin type and any
treatment limiting conditions during the consultation and recommend the most appropriate
facial treatment. Any treatment preferences should also be discussed and agreed with the
client.

P3 Explain the treatment procedure to the client

Learners must explain the treatment step by step to the client. At a minimum the explanation
should include the treatment procedure for the facial treatment, the benefits of the chosen
products used and what effects should be expected after the treatment as well as long term.

P4 Instruct the client on how to prepare for the facial treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have provided their client with instructions on how to
prepare for the facial treatment. Learners must demonstrate that they instructed the client as
to what (if any) clothing or jewellery needs to be removed, with safe storage offered. The
provision of modesty covering was arranged where required and advice and guidance was
provided to the client on how to position themselves for safety and comfort and to facilitate
the treatment.

P5 Prepare the client and their skin for treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have protected the client’s hair and clothing before and
during the facial treatment.

15
P6 Select the required equipment and products to achieve the required results

Learners must demonstrate that they have chosen the correct products for the client’s skin
conditions. Based on factors established during the consultation, a minimum level of
proficiency for selection of the most appropriate products could be demonstrated by
choosing the correct type of cleanser, exfoliation product, moisturiser, or deciding which
massage medium and masks are most appropriate to suit the skin condition being treated.
Learners must demonstrate neat application and removal of chosen products using warm
towels when required. Learners must carry out the cleansing, toning, exfoliation,
moisturising, massage and mask in the appropriate sequence in line with manufacturers’
instructions.

P7 In line with manufacturer’s instructions, carry out facial techniques

Learners must correctly identify the client’s skin type and select products accordingly.
Learner must deliver the requested treatment to suit the client’s needs demonstrating
awareness of commercially acceptable timings.
Learners must demonstrate that facial treatment products are applied and removed in the
correct sequence and facilitate the professional and effective execution of the treatment.
Learners must demonstrate that they can perform facial massage movements correctly and
appropriately for the client. Movements should flow, without too much repetition with a
steady rate and rhythm. Learners must avoid breaking contact with the client. Learners must
apply pressure appropriate to the client’s needs and the pressure must be checked with the
client. Learner’s posture and working stance must be maintained throughout the treatment.
Learners must dispose of consumables appropriately.
Learners must complete the treatment in a commercially acceptable time, (recommended up
to 60 minutes for a full facial). Learners must ensure the client’s treatment needs have been
met by asking for feedback on the treatment, ensuring the client is satisfied with the
treatment and recording any improvement for future treatments.
Learners must on at least one occasion carry out steaming and comedone extraction.
Learners must carry out steaming safely and appropriate length of treatment to suit skin
type. Comedone extraction should be carried out hygienically, minimising discomfort to client
and with no damage to the skin.

P8 Provide suitable aftercare advice

Learners must demonstrate that they can provide feedback and aftercare to the client, this
includes describing any finding from the facial treatment, providing information on further
treatment options, explaining the importance of a healthy diet, demonstrating the home use
of products and explaining their benefits, providing advice on retail products to enhance
treatment benefits, describing possible contra-actions that may occur.

P9 Update and maintain the client treatment records

Learners must fully complete the treatment records to meet the salon requirements and
show an understanding of the legal requirements for record keeping.
The information which is kept on a client’s record card must be kept confidential. All client
records must be relevant, up to date, accurate and kept securely.

16
P10 Prepare the area for the next treatment

Learners must demonstrate that they have prepared the treatment area, by wiping down
couch and trolley, cleaning lids or outside of bottles on products and removing and returning
to storage all products and unused consumables, removing used towels for laundering,
throwing away couch roll or used consumables, refreshing the consumables used and
ensuring ease of set up for the next therapist.

M1 Adjust communication techniques to meet the client’s needs

Learners must demonstrate that they have adjusted their style of communication to suit and
respond to the client. Learners must demonstrate that all communication with the client is
ethical, respectful, unobtrusive and inoffensive and of a suitable and appropriate content and
context. Learners must give clients the opportunity to digest any technical information and
encourage clients to ask questions. Learners must be confident in asking probing questions
in a sensitive manner. Learners must show that they can assure and reassure the client
throughout the consultation. Learners must demonstrate the consideration of the individual
needs of the client.

M2 Use techniques to promote the retail of products or additional services

Learners must demonstrate that they have at a minimum recommended one relevant
product or additional service to suit the client’s needs to acknowledge a ‘buying signal’ –
visual or verbal. Advice on appropriate skin/hair/nail care and homecare techniques should
be provided to ensure the clients treatment continues to provide optimum results.
Learners should recommend further follow-on, alternative or additional beauty treatments
and offer to re-book the client for their next appointment

M3 Display organisation skills by using tidy, efficient working methods

Learners must demonstrate that throughout the treatment or service their working area
reflects an organised, tidy approach by the learner to the provision of the treatments or
services for the duration of the process. The treatment that has been provided is within the
allocated time allowed and competence has been reflected at each stage of the treatment,
being mindful of cost effectiveness and demonstrating efficient use of the products and tools.

D1 Explain their choice of products and techniques used during the facial treatment

Learners must be able to explain their selection of products and techniques for application,
used during the facial treatment. Learners will provide a clear explanation on which products
were chosen and for what specific purpose they were. Learners will give the reasons behind
the choice of techniques for application expanding on any adaptations to application
techniques used. Learners will make reference to client’s skin type, characteristics and
overall treatment objectives. Learners will explain how they used techniques in the facial
process to achieve the identified results.

17
D2 Review the effectiveness of the facial treatment and make suggestions for
improvement

The learner must examine the strengths and weaknesses of the treatment that has been
carried out to assess whether it met the treatment outcomes. Learners will need to judge a
variety of evidence including client feedback (verbal and non-verbal), a visual inspection of
the treatment area to look for signs of improvement, an assessment of the client’s skin
reaction and the assessor’s feedback.
Learners must review how they felt the treatment went based on previous experiences and
technical understanding of the effects of treatment. Leaners will evaluate whether or not they
felt the treatment met the client’s objectives, e.g. provide a more even skin tone, boost
circulation, improved skin condition, whether the correct treatment was chosen for the
client’s needs and if any changes or alterations would be recommended for future
treatments.

18
Resources
The special resources required for this unit are access to a real or realistic working
environment which supports the provision of facial treatments.

Delivery guidance
Teachers are encouraged to use innovative, practical and engaging delivery methods to
enhance the learning experience. Learners may benefit from:
 Meaningful employer engagement so they relate what is being learned to the real world
of work and understand commercial competency and product, tools and equipment
usage
 Work experience within a beauty salon so they can practise to hone their skills in a real
environment
 Using interactive information and technology, systems and hardware so they can learn
about concepts and theories; research current trends; research product knowledge and
produce visual aids

Links with other units

This unit is closely linked with the following units:

UCO34M Health, safety and hygiene

The health and safety unit will provide knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities
for health and safety as defined by any specific legislation covering the role of a professional
therapist. This unit greatly underpins all practical unit delivery. Learners will be required to
apply their knowledge and understanding of health and safety when preparing for and
providing eyelash and eyebrow tinting treatments in a real or realistic working environment.

UBT193M Consultation techniques and client care

Client consultation before all nail services is a legal requirement and failure to consult
properly with clients prior to treatment could invalidate therapy insurance. It is essential that
therapists elicit information from their clients about their medical history, including any
allergies as well as checking for contra-indications. The client consultation unit underpins all
technical units within this qualification and should be delivered prior to the delivery of any
technical beauty therapy unit.

UBT195M Skin type analysis

An effective skin analysis is the cornerstone of all successful facial treatments. This unit will
develop the therapist’s knowledge and understanding of skin types, conditions and
characteristics as well as variations between skin types, to allow for effective product
selection and treatment planning. The knowledge of contra-indications to treatment and
safety precautions when treating the skin will also be developed. This unit must always be
delivered in conjunction with the ‘provide facial treatments’ unit.

UBT202M Anatomy and physiology for beauty therapists

Knowledge of the structure and function of the systems of the body, as well as the diseases
and disorders, most significantly underpins the knowledge and practical skills gained in this
unit. Other elements of anatomy and physiology are also relevant to this unit in terms of
understanding contra-indications to treatment as well as possible contra-actions, benefits
and effects.

19
Graded synoptic assessment
At the end of the qualification of which this unit forms part, there will be a graded synoptic
assessment which will assess the learner’s ability to identify and use effectively in an
integrated way an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and
knowledge from a number of units from within the qualification. It is therefore necessary and
important that units are delivered and assessed together and synoptically to prepare
learners suitably for their final graded assessment.

20
Version Details of amendments Date
v5 Skin cancer awareness page 14/06/17
added

21